Through the iThemba Crisis Line –– designed to cushion victims of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) against the psychological impact of the scourge –– the City aims to encourage people to ring in with tips about suspected cases.

The 24-hour telephone hotline has been set up to blow the whistle on the abuse of women and children and to afford victims with psychosocial support and access to justice.

Cllr Eunice Mgcina, the MMC for Health and Social Development, says the hotline aims to bring hope and assistance to women and children who may be in distress.

“Until such a time where Gender-Based Violence and Femicide are completely eradicated, there can be no rest. Our work is not done," she says.

The 0800 223 217 toll-free iThemba 24hour-Crisis Line provides the following services:

• Emotional Support 
• Crisis Intervention
• Tele counselling
• Containment of feelings and situation
• 24-Hour Access to professional help and
• A network of support services

The Executive Mayor, Cllr Geoff Makhubo says Gender-Based Violence and Femicide is everybody's business and everyone must rise up to the clarion call to address this pandemic.

“GBV knows no colour or class, yet the ones who bear the brunt the most are found in the periphery of our City," says Cllr Makhubo.

The 24-hour Substance Abuse Crisis Line is situated at 28 Harrison Street, Marshalltown in central Johannesburg. It provides an integrated and holistic focus on the wellbeing of communities, ensuring preventative as well as curative health services across all age groups.

It forms part of the City's integrated strategy to eradicate substance abuse and other related social ills.